Fremantle Dockers recruit Mason Cox has sparked fresh debate about his potential role this season after a standout performance as a pure key forward during the team's first training session back from the Christmas break.
Cox Makes His Mark in Match Simulation
The Collingwood premiership player, who joined Fremantle during the off-season, was a dominant figure in Monday's match simulation at training. Playing primarily as a forward, Cox slotted two goals and had another scoring shot, emerging as the most dangerous attacking option on the ground. This display came as ruckmen Luke Jackson and Sean Darcy handled the primary ruck duties, allowing Cox to focus on his forward craft.
Teammate Praise and Versatility on Show
Teammate Pat Voss, who played in the same forward line, was full of praise for the American-born big man. Voss highlighted Cox's experience, energy, and immediate impact on the group. "He's been unbelievable for our group," Voss said. "He kicks his snags and gets up and about. He's been great so far." Voss also noted Cox's vocal presence and eagerness to learn Fremantle's system, making him a valuable asset for the younger players.
The training session provided a glimpse into potential tactical setups for the Dockers. Luke Jackson spent time in the midfield, a move that has been a feature of Fremantle's summer program and one that could create more opportunities for Cox to partner with Sean Darcy in the ruck or, as demonstrated, to play as a specialist forward.
Forward Pressure a Welcome Headache for Coaches
Cox's successful foray forward presents a positive selection dilemma for the Fremantle coaching staff. With 127 goals from 139 AFL games, including a famous three-goal, eight-contested-mark performance in the 2018 preliminary final, he has proven he can perform on the big stage. Voss believes the internal competition for spots is healthy. "Pressure is a great thing," Voss stated. "The more we have pressure coming up, it pushes us... It's definitely a good thing."
The exact balance between ruck and forward minutes for Cox, Jackson, and Darcy remains a work in progress. As Voss explained, "That's something the coaches are working through at the moment." However, Monday's session proved unequivocally that Mason Cox is a viable and potent forward option for Fremantle as they build towards the 2026 AFL season.
